Legislation & regulations

Temporary hold on processing applications in bushfire affected areas

Earth Resources Regulation has resumed processing applications for new licences in Victoria’s high country now that bushfire conditions have eased and main roads, postal services and local newspapers are again operational.

A temporary hold on processing applications for new licences in East Gippsland’s coastal areas remains in place, pending further consideration of the impact of the fires on local residents’ opportunity to participate in licensing matters.

Applications to renew or amend existing licences will be considered on a case by case basis in all areas, taking account of the bushfire situation in local communities and importance for the licensee’s immediate operations and employees.

It’s important that applicants and communities impacted by the Victorian bushfires have an opportunity to engage in the licensing process, including a fair opportunity for local landholders and community members to consider and respond to statutory required newspaper advertisements or notices.

While fire conditions have eased, many local people are continuing to focus on volunteering to contain fires, remaining alert to advice to protect their safety or starting their recovery efforts.

Earth Resources Regulation will continue to closely monitor the bushfire situation and resume processing all new licence applications as soon it is confident that people from bushfire impacted communities are able to participate in the process.